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The Greatest Shoal on Earth

The annual Sardine Run usually takes place during June and July along South Africa and is hailed as one of nature's most spectacular events. It's an underwater version of the great annual migration of wildebeest in East Africa. Every year millions of sardines spawn in the cool waters of the Agulhas Bank (south of South Africa) and move northward to the warmer waters, just along South Africa's to KwaZulu-Natal east coast shoreline. It's not unusual for shoals to be 4 miles long and 1 mile wide, they are clearly visible from the surface of the ocean.

The sardines are followed eagerly by predators. Great White Sharks, Copper Sharks, Common Dolphins, Sail Fish, Seals and Cape Gannets are a few of the predators that pursue the shoals northwards along the east coast of South Africa to enjoy this fishy banquet. To protect themselves from this onslaught, sardines form into giant balls called 'bait balls' which can measure as large as 65 feet (20 meters) in diameter. White clouds of Cape Gannets plunge into the water like jet fighter planes, pods of common dolphins join together to herd the sardines through “super pods” several thousand strong, and hundreds of sharks join in pursuit make for some truly spectacular diving opportunities. The South Coast offers several vantage points along its magnificent 120km long coastline for you to take full advantage of the experience from the comfort of a deck-chair.

The Sardine Run also coincides with the annual migration of Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales that move north for the season into warmer water to mate and calve. These whales migrate north to give birth and they mate off the KwaZulu-Natal coast.  Whales during their migration, they may travel up to 8,000 km in what is probably the longest mammal migration known to man.

This is an event for everyone to enjoy - be it bird watchers, marine-life enthusiasts, amateur or highly experienced divers or snorkellers. Experience the Sardine Run beneath the waves or above.

Speak to one of our consultants for more information.